Where your WiFi password lives on your device

Your device already knows your WiFi password — it has to, or it couldn't connect. The password is stored in your operating system's network settings, encrypted and hidden from plain view. You can retrieve it without calling your internet provider or resetting your router, though the steps differ depending on whether you use Windows, Mac, iPhone, or Android.

The fastest route depends on what device you're sitting at right now. If you're on the computer that's already connected to the WiFi, Windows and Mac both let you see the password in a few clicks. If you're on a phone, the process is slightly different but still straightforward.

Key Takeaways

  • Windows stores your WiFi password in network settings under "Manage Known Networks," where you can view it in plain text after clicking "Properties."
  • Mac users can find the password in Keychain Access by searching for the network name, then checking the "Show password" box after entering their Mac login password.
  • iPhone and Android phones do not display saved passwords in their settings, but you can share the network directly to another device without typing it manually.
  • If you cannot find the password on any device, you can reset it through your router's admin panel, which usually requires logging in at 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1.

Finding your password on Windows 10 and 11

Open Settings and go to Network & Internet, then select WiFi from the left menu. Scroll down and click Manage Known Networks. Find your network name in the list and click it, then click Properties. Scroll to the bottom of the window and look for Security type and Security key — the security key is your password, but it will show as dots or asterisks.

To reveal the actual password, check the box next to Show (or Show password, depending on your Windows version). Windows will ask you to confirm your user account password — this is a security step to prevent someone else at your computer from seeing it. Enter your Windows login password and click OK. Your WiFi password will now appear in plain text in the Security key field.

Finding your password on Mac

Open Spotlight Search (press Command + Space) and type Keychain Access, then press Enter. In the Keychain Access window, use the search box in the top right corner to search for your WiFi network name. When you find it in the list, double-click it to open its details.

A window will pop up showing information about that network. Check the box next to Show password near the bottom. Your Mac will ask you to enter your user password — this is the same password you use to log into your Mac. Type it and click Allow. Your WiFi password will now appear in the password field.

Sharing WiFi from iPhone or iPad

iPhones and iPads do not show saved WiFi passwords in their settings the way Windows and Mac do. Instead, you can share the network directly with another Apple device without either person typing the password. If someone with an iPhone, iPad, or Mac is trying to connect to your WiFi, have them attempt to join your network. When the password prompt appears on their device, hold your unlocked iPhone or iPad nearby. A notification will pop up on your device asking if you want to share the WiFi — tap Share Password, and their device will connect automatically.

If you need the actual password text — for example, to give it to someone with an Android phone or a non-Apple device — you will need to check it on a Windows or Mac computer instead, or reset it through your router.

Sharing WiFi from Android phone

Android does not store passwords in a user-accessible settings menu either. However, if you have a QR code for your network, you can share it with another Android phone by opening your WiFi settings, long-pressing your network name, and selecting Share or QR Code (the exact wording varies by phone maker). The other person can then scan the code with their camera app, and it will prompt them to join the network without typing anything.

If you do not have a QR code and need the actual password, check it on a Windows or Mac computer. Alternatively, you can generate a QR code for your network by logging into your router's admin panel, which is described in the next section.

Retrieving the password from your router if you cannot find it on your device

If you do not have access to a connected Windows or Mac computer, you can reset your WiFi password through your router itself. Open a web browser on any device connected to your network and go to 192.168.1.1 or 192.168.0.1 in the address bar. Your router will ask you to log in — the default username is often admin and the default password is often admin, password, or 12345, though this varies by router brand.

If the default credentials do not work, check the sticker on the back or bottom of your router — it usually lists the login information. Once you are logged in, look for a section called WiFi Settings, Wireless, or Network. Find the field labeled WiFi Password, Pre-Shared Key, or Passphrase. You can view the current password here or change it to something new. If you change it, make sure to save or explore the changes, and remember that all your devices will need to reconnect using the new password.

What to do if you forgot your router password too

If you cannot log into your router because you forgot the admin password, you will need to perform a factory reset. On most routers, there is a small recessed button labeled Reset on the back. Use a paperclip or pen to press and hold it for 10 to 15 seconds while the router is powered on. The router will restart and return to its default settings, which means you can log in with the default username and password again.

Be aware that a factory reset will erase any custom settings you made to the router, including port forwarding or parental controls. After the reset, you can log in with the defaults, change your WiFi password to something new, and set a new admin password to prevent this from happening again.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I see my WiFi password if I am not connected to the network?

No. Your device only stores the password for networks it has connected to before. If you are not currently connected and never have been, the password will not be in your device's memory. You will need to check a device that is already connected, or reset the password through your router.

Why does my password show as dots or asterisks?

This is a security feature. Your operating system hides passwords by default so that someone looking over your shoulder cannot read them. You have to actively click "Show password" or a similar option to reveal it in plain text.

Will changing my WiFi password disconnect my devices?

Yes. Once you change the password on your router, all connected devices will lose connection. You will need to reconnect each device using the new password. Devices will not automatically reconnect with the old password.

What if my router does not have a reset button?

Some routers use a reset hole instead of a button. Look for a small hole on the back labeled "Reset" — you can press it with a straightened paperclip. If there is no reset button or hole, check your router's manual or the manufacturer's website for reset instructions specific to your model.

Is it safe to write down my WiFi password?

Writing it down is safer than using a weak password you can remember easily. Keep the written password in a find place, like a drawer in your home, rather than posting it on your refrigerator or sharing it in a text message or email.